Design thinking resource
Complex, multi-faceted social or environmental challenges that are difficult to define and cannot be resolved with a single straightforward answer.
Wicked problems involve many interrelated and interdependent factors, making root causes difficult to isolate. Their definition can change as new information emerges or perspectives shift.
Climate change, poverty, inequality and healthcare crises are examples. Each requires systemic and interdisciplinary thinking rather than a narrow technical response.
Unlike a well-defined problem, a wicked problem rarely has one final or objectively correct answer. An intervention may improve one part of the situation while creating consequences elsewhere.
The challenge is dynamic and evolving, so responses must also adapt over time as conditions, evidence and understanding change.
Wicked problems involve stakeholders with different interests, experiences and definitions of success. Governments, organisations, businesses, communities and individuals may all hold part of the knowledge required.
Addressing them requires a long-term commitment to systemic change and the ability to collaborate, learn and develop creative responses together.
Put the method to work
Many connected factors make causes, effects and points of intervention difficult to separate.
The way the problem is understood changes as evidence and perspectives develop.
There is no straightforward answer that permanently resolves every dimension of the challenge.
The context continues to change while people are attempting to understand and address it.
Different groups bring competing interests, values, experiences and measures of success.
Why it matters
Explore relationships, feedback loops and unintended consequences across the wider context.
Bring together knowledge that no single person, role or organisation holds alone.
Treat each response as an opportunity to gather evidence and strengthen understanding.
Develop responsible, adaptive interventions rather than waiting for a perfect final answer.
Continue exploring
Place this method back within the broader 5E Design Thinking Framework and continue developing your understanding.